Born: 1968 (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Biography:
Marnie Elizabeth McBean, OC MSM, was born on January 28, 1968, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. A Canadian former rower, she is considered one of the most accomplished athletes in her sport. Throughout her career, McBean showcased immense talent, determination, and a relentless drive for success.
McBean’s journey in rowing began while she was studying at the University of Western Ontario. Her dedication and hard work paid off when she represented Canada at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. Competing in the coxless pairs and eights events, McBean and her partner, Kathleen Heddle, secured gold medals in both, marking the start of their remarkable partnership.
Four years later, McBean and Heddle participated in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. This time, they competed in the double and quadruple sculls events, capturing gold in the double sculls and bronze in the quadruple sculls. With these victories, McBean and Heddle became the first Canadians to win three Olympic gold medals.
McBean’s success was not limited to the Olympics. In 1993, she won a silver medal at the World Rowing Championships in the prestigious single scull event. Her exceptional performance showcased her versatility and aptitude for various rowing disciplines.
As the 2000 Sydney Olympics approached, McBean was determined to clinch her fourth gold medal. However, fate had other plans. A back injury forced her to withdraw from the Games, marking the end of her international rowing career. Despite this setback, McBean’s legacy as one of Canada’s greatest rowers was already firmly established.
Throughout her career, McBean received numerous accolades for her achievements. In 1997, she was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing her incredible contributions to Canadian sports. Additionally, in 2002, the International Rowing Federation (FISA) awarded her the prestigious Thomas Keller Medal for her outstanding career in international rowing.
McBean’s dedication to her sport and her country did not go unnoticed. In 1997, she was honored with the Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) for her exceptional service and dedication. Her commitment to excellence and her contributions to Canadian sports and society were further recognized in 2013 when she was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada.
Beyond her athletic accomplishments, McBean has also made a significant impact as a trailblazer. After retiring from active competition, she began openly embracing her identity as a lesbian. In 2010, she met her partner, Deanah Shelly, and the couple married in April 2014. McBean’s journey in embracing her true self has helped raise awareness and promote acceptance of sexual diversity.
Driven by her passion for rowing and her desire to inspire the next generation of athletes, McBean has continued to contribute to the sports community. She was appointed as the chef de mission of Canada’s team at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, showcasing her leadership skills and dedication to fostering success among Canadian athletes.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the advancement and education of issues surrounding sexual identification, McBean was presented with the Bonham Centre Award from The Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies at the University of Toronto in 2015. Her advocacy and openness about her own experiences have helped create a more inclusive and accepting society.
Marnie McBean’s unwavering commitment, remarkable achievements, and dedication to fostering inclusivity have solidified her place as an icon in the world of rowing. Her legacy as a three-time Olympic gold medalist and her contributions to women’s history will continue to inspire generations to come.
Awards:
– Olympic Gold Medalist (1992, coxless pairs and eights)
– Olympic Gold Medalist (1996, double sculls)
– Olympic Bronze Medalist (1996, quadruple sculls)
– Silver Medalist, World Rowing Championships (1993, single scull)
– Inductee, Canadian Sports Hall of Fame (1997)
– Thomas Keller Medal, FISA (2002)
– Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) (1997)
– Officer of the Order of Canada (2013)
– Bonham Centre Award (2015)